Tree Swallows are prospecting for nestboxes in the fields. After spending winter in the southern U.S. and Central America, they are hoping for insects to fatten on before they make nests and lay eggs. Tree swallows can eat some fruit like bayberries, which is one reason they can survive erratic weather.
Eastern Phoebes are calling FEE-bee and perching on fences and bridges. Sometimes they flip their tails up and down when perched. In May nearly every bridge and boardwalk will have a least one phoebe nest under it.
Indian Brook, ponds and wetlands are teeming with ducks, but many are wary of people so they may swim or fly away as you approach. Many ducks and geese appear black and white from a distance. Look for a pattern to help tell them apart. The Ring-necked Ducks in this picture have white on the sides and “shoulder”.
Hooded Merganser male and female can be seen in the same wetland.
Wood Duck males are spectacular, but very “shy” of people.
Vernal (or spring) pools are thawing. Any day Woodfrogs will appear to mate and lay eggs. Listen for what sounds like a flock of mallard ducks in the woods – it’s really the frogs.
